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Shells with Cheese Cream, Saffron, and Pine Nuts

17/11/2023

Shells with cheese cream, saffron, and pine nuts are a rich and tasty first course that combines the creaminess of the cheeses with the spicy note of saffron and the crunchiness of pine nuts. Here is the recipe to prepare this delicious dish.

Ingredients

  • 350 g of ridged shell pasta
  • 200 ml of cooking cream
  • 100 g of soft cheese (such as Taleggio or Stracchino)
  • 50 g of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 packet of powdered saffron
  • 50 g of pine nuts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Butter as needed for creaming
  • A pinch of nutmeg
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ridged shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and keep a cup of the cooking water aside.
  2. Meanwhile, in a large pan, lightly toast the pine nuts over medium heat, being careful not to burn them. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, pour the cream and add the soft cheese cut into cubes. Heat over low heat, constantly stirring until the cheese has completely melted into the cream.
  4. Add the saffron, Parmesan, a pinch of salt and pepper, a pinch of nutmeg, and mix everything well. If the cream is too thick, add a little of the pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.
  5. Add the shells to the cheese cream and stir well to coat. If necessary, add more cooking water to make it creamy.
  6. Finally, add the toasted pine nuts to the mixture and gently stir to distribute them evenly.
  7. Serve the shells with cheese cream garnished with chopped parsley, if desired.

As an Italian touch, if you like the idea, you can also add some diced cooked ham during the cream preparation for an even richer and more enveloping taste.

Curiosity

Saffron is an expensive and precious spice, originally from the Middle East, known not only for its unique flavor but also for its antioxidant properties and health benefits. In this dish, saffron adds a delicate flavor and a beautiful golden hue to the cheese cream.

Shells with Cheese Cream, Saffron, and Pine Nuts